Applicator

ABSTRACT

An applicator having a concave surface comprising a non-absorbing elastomeric material is effective in topically compositions to minimize the appearance of fine facial hair on women.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an applicator for topically applying a composition to a face.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typical applicators for topically applying facial skin care compositions (e.g., foundations) to skin and facial hair that are made of expanded foam do not provide a smooth and continuous deposition of the composition on a face for the purposes of concealing facial skin imperfections and fine facial hair (e.g., vellus hair). These existing applicators typically have a rough, and often porous and absorbent surface, which do not allow for an even and smooth deposition. There is a need to maximize the effectiveness of these skin compositions (e.g., concealing benefits) with even and smooth facial deposition.

Another shortcoming of these applicators is they do not offer the ability to manage a reservoir of skin care composition between the applicator surface and facial substrate and yet provide the desired even and smooth deposition. There is also a need for an applicator to be made from a material that resists absorption of the skin care composition during contact.

There is yet a further need for the applicator to be adaptable for use to the diverse contours of a human face (e.g., broad areas as cheeks as well as challenging areas around the nose and eyes) and also intuitive to the user in how to hold and use the applicator. There is a need for the applicator to be sanitary, i.e. allow the applicator to be washed after one or more uses. There is also a need for applicator to be able to hold a reservoir of dispensed skin care compositions in the dosing area and keep it from running before being applied to the face.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to solving one or more of these problems. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the present invention identifies the materials, geometry, and methodology to address one or more of the problems.

Firstly, the inventive applicator helps to addresses the need of managing and concealing fine facial hair of a human female. Depending on the individual and exactly where on the face this hair is located, the hair may be vellus hair with shaft diameters ranging from 1 to 30 micro meters to darker terminal hair with shaft diameters typically larger than 30 micrometer to about 120 micrometers. Without wishing to be bound by theory, concealing this hair is best achieved by using the applicator of the present invention to smoothly and evenly applying a skin care composition to skin and hair, and concurrently laying down (i.e., flatten) the hair against the skin. Furthermore, results are maximized by stroking the applicator along the grain of the hair. Results may also be maximized by including chemistry in the skin care composition to further minimize the appearance the fine facial hair through opacity and maintaining the adhesion of hair to the skin.

Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides an applicator, configured for topically applying a composition to a face, which comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the second surface is a concave surface and the second surface comprises a non-absorbing elastomeric material.

A second aspect provides for a method of provide hair minimization to a face comprising the step of topically applying a film-forming composition to the face by the aforementioned applicator. A third aspect of the invention provides for a kit comprising the aforementioned applicator; and a container containing a skin care composition; and optionally use instructions. Manufacturing methods are also provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of an applicator of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is cross sectional front view of the applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional right view of the applicator of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a cross sectional portion of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is an example of kit that has the applicator of FIG. 1 and a secondary package that is capable of containing the applicator and a facial foundation composition.

FIG. 8 a is a user topically using the applicator of FIG. 1 on her nose.

FIG. 8 b is the user grabbing the applicator in a first position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 9 a is a user topically using the applicator of FIG. 1 on her nose.

FIG. 9 b is the user grabbing the applicator in a second position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 10 a is a user topically using the applicator of FIG. 1 on her cheek.

FIG. 10 b is the user grabbing the applicator in a third position before using the applicator as show in FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 11 a is a user topically using the applicator of FIG. 1 on her cheek.

FIG. 11 b is showing the user grabbing the applicator in a fourth position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 12 is a deposition grading scale for even deposition of a formulation from an applicator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Composition of Applicator

One aspect of the invention provides for an applicator wherein a surface of the applicator comprises of a non-absorbing elastomeric material, preferably wherein a first surface and an opposing second surface each comprise a non-absorbing elastomeric material. In one embodiment, the surface of the applicator configured to make contact with a facial substrate at least comprises the non-absorbing elastomeric material, wherein preferably the surface is also a concave surface. Without wishing to be bound by theory, absorbing materials, such as sponges, exhibit many undesirable characteristics for hair lay-down applications. Based on unpublished consumer research, some consumers feel that a portion of the skin care composition is being lost by being absorbed into the sponge and therefore not being completely dosed on to the skin. Another challenge with absorbing materials is their use may lead to unsanitary conditions since sponges and other such materials are challenging to clean or wash and can harbor bacteria. Also, absorbing materials do not provide even applications of skin care composition on to the facial substrate given the rough or non-smooth topical surface that absorptive materials typically have.

In one embodiment, at least 10%, or 15%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or 98%, or more of an outer surface area of the applicator comprises a non-absorbing elastomeric surface. In another embodiment, less than 100%, or 98%, 95%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 25%, or 15%, or less; but greater than 10%, of the outer surface area of the applicator comprises a non-absorbing elastomeric material. In yet another embodiment, 40% to 100%, preferably from 50% to 100%, alternatively from 60% to 100%, alternatively combinations thereof, of the outer surface area of the application comprises the non-absorbing elastomeric material.

In one embodiment, from 5% to 100%, preferably from 10% to 100%, more preferably from 50% to 100%, alternatively from 25% to 75%, alternatively from 10% to 90%, alternatively from 80% to 100%, alternatively combinations thereof, by weight of the applicator comprises a non-absorbing elastomeric material. In yet another embodiment, the applicator comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, or more different types of materials. The different types of materials may or may not all be non-absorbing elastomeric materials.

Another aspect of the invention provides for at least a surface of the applicator configured to make contact with the skin or facial substrate to be comprised of a non-absorbing elastomeric material that is smooth for even application of skin care compositions to the facial substrate. Yet another aspect of the invention provides for the material of the applicator, at least the outer surface, to be washable to allow the user to clean the applicator between one or more uses.

In one embodiment, the non-absorbing elastomeric material of the applicator is a combination of a hydrogenated styrene butadiene block copolymer and a silicone fluid, preferably wherein the silicone fluid is a dimethyl silicone fluid. The copolymer compound may be obtained from Kuraray Plastics Co., Ltd (Osaka, Japan); SEPTON COMPOUND JS20N. The dimethyl silicone fluid may be obtained from Momentive Performance Materials Japan LLC (Tokyo, Japan); TSF451 Series of products. In another embodiment, the applicator comprises from at least 95%, preferably at least 96%, or 97%, 98%, or at least 99% of the block copolymer by weight of the applicator. Alternatively the applicator comprises from 90% to 100%, alternatively from 99% to 99.9%, alternatively combinations thereof, of the block copolymer by weight of the applicator. In another embodiment, the applicator material further comprises a silicone fluid, preferably from 0.01% to 2%, more preferable from 0.1% to 1.5%, alternatively from 0.5% to 1.2%, alternatively from 0.5% to 1%, alternatively combinations thereof, of the silicone fluid by weight of the applicator. In one non-limiting example, the material of the applicator comprises 99.3% of the block copolymer and 0.7% of the silicone fluid, by weight of the applicator.

The material(s) comprising the applicator can be injected molded or caste molded to form the applicator. Alternatively these materials may be vulcanized, thermoformed, assembled and heat welded or welded with adhesives, injection molded, extruded, die cut, cast, or combinations thereof.

Non-limiting examples applicator materials that could be used on a surface of the applicator, or even throughout the applicator as a whole, include a polymer containing a heteroatom. Examples may include polyvinylchloride, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyesters, polyacrylates, and polycarbonates. These materials may be used with a plasticizer. In addition, a plurality of these materials may be formed as separate elements and then combined into a single unit (to ultimately make an applicator of the present invention). In one non-limiting example, a variety of materials may be die-cut from sheet stock and then assembled with heat, or adhesives to form a single composite applicator that yields the desired properties of inter alia surface profile, hardness, and flexibility.

In one embodiment, the applicator is made of several different types of materials. The applicator may be formed of a laminate of materials. In such an embodiment, one or more outer surfaces of the applicator may have a non-absorbing elastomeric material, whereas materials in the interior of the applicator may include other materials that may include absorbing or non-absorbing materials; or elastomeric or non-elastomeric materials; or combinations thereof. Such embodiments could provide the advantages of the present invention and yet allow for greater design and manufacturing flexibility. These laminates may be made through heat welding, adhesives, or multi sequential step casting or injection molding processes.

Other non-limiting examples of nonabsorbent materials that could be used throughout the applicator as a whole, in combination, and/or on a surface of the applicator include thermoplastic elastomers, urethanes, and rubber.

Applicator Dimensions

One aspect of the invention provides the applicator to have an overall surface area from 25 cm² to 200 cm², preferably from 30 cm² to 100 cm², preferably from 35 cm² to 80 cm², alternatively from 40 cm² to 60 cm². In one embodiment, one surface of the applicator, preferably the surface configured to make contact with the skin or facial substrate, is concave. In such an embodiment, the concave surface preferably has a surface area from 5 cm² to 100 cm², preferably from 7 cm² to 50 cm², more preferably from 10 cm² to 30 cm². During use, not the entire one surface of the applicator (configured to make contact with the skin/facial substrate) will typically make contact with the skin or facial substrate. The percentage of the one surface of the applicator making contact with the skin/facial substrate will depend upon a number of variables including the user's preferences, contour of the face being treated, and amount of composition being applied (at any given time).

In one embodiment when one surface of the applicator is concave, the concave surface is configured to contain a volume from 0.030 ml to 0.500 ml, alternatively from 0.100 ml to 0.220 ml, alternatively from 0.140 ml to 0.200 ml, alternatively combinations thereof.

One suitable way to measure this volume is to place the concave surface of the applicator up and determine how much water the concave surface is capable of retaining. In addition, this volume may be customized to show the user how much product to dispense during one application cycle. By making visually or tactile evidence of steel mold markings or printed or decorated areas on the surface or changes in geometry or material thickness changes, the applicator design or a portion of the design is used to indicate to the user exactly how much skin care composition to dispense.

The size of the applicator can be important. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the applicator strikes a balance: in being small enough to provide a relatively compact design (for travel etc.) and suitable for use by the typical sized human female fingers (e.g., about 1 cm in diameter); but large enough to facilitate easy application for larger skin substrate areas (e.g., cheeks), and maintain a user gripable surface away from the skin/facial contact surface (avoiding unwanted contact and composition loss).

Turning to FIGS. 1-3, suitable lengths, widths, and thicknesses of the applicator (1) of the present invention are described. The length of the applicator (1) is its longest dimension when placed along a horizontal plane (35) (e.g., a level table top). A center vertical axis (37), orthogonal to the horizontal plane (35), passes through a geometric center (not shown) of the applicator (1).

The width of the applicator (1) is measured perpendicular to its length along the same horizontal plane (35). The thickest portion of the applicator (1), per the applicator (1) described by the figures herein, is at the center vertical axis (37). In one embodiment, the length of the applicator is from 45 mm to 70 mm, preferably from 50 mm to 65 mm, alternatively from 55 mm to 60 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. The width of the applicator is from 30 mm to 60 mm, preferably from 35 mm to 55 mm, alternatively from 40 mm to 50 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. A thickness of the applicator is from 0.5 mm to 5 mm, alternatively from 1 mm to 4 mm. In one embodiment, the thickness, measured at the center vertical axis (37), is from 1 mm to 4 mm, alternatively from 2 mm to 3.5 mm, alternatively from 3 mm to 4 mm, alternatively combination thereof. In another embodiment, the thickest portion of the application is from 1 mm to 4 mm, alternatively from 2 mm to 3.5 mm, alternatively from 3 mm to 4 mm, alternatively combination thereof. In one embodiment, the thickness of the applicator does not exceed 6 mm, preferably does not exceed 5 mm, alternatively does not exceed 4 mm.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a non-limiting example of an applicator. FIG. 2 is a top view of the applicator of FIG. 1, and FIG. 2 is a bottom view. As illustrated in these figures, the applicator (1) may have at least two zones (3, 6) defined by varying thicknesses. The outer zone (6) is defined being nearest the outside periphery of the applicator (1) and having a thickness less than inner zone (3). An inner zone (3) includes the center of the applicator (1). The circumferential edge (9) and is defined as the outer most peripheral edge of the applicator (9), generally defining an elliptical shape. In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in the figures, the outer zone (6) has substantially the same thickness throughout. The inner zone (3) is thicker than the outer zone (6). As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, an inter-zone border (13) demarcates the intersection between the outer zone (6) and the inner zone (3) on the first surface (31) of the applicator (1). The inter-zone border (13) forms an elliptical shape (or any other shape including a curvilinear one) that mimics the elliptical shape (or any other shape) defined by the circumferential edge (9)). The inner zone (3) has an ellipsoidal portion protruding from the first surface (31). The inner zone (3) increases in thickness from the inter-zone border (13) toward the center of the applicator (1). In one embodiment, the surface area of the first surface (31) of the inner zone (3) is from 1 cm² to 5 cm², preferably from 2 cm² to 4 cm². The length of the inner zone (3), along the major axis (not shown), may be from 15 to 25 mm, preferably from 18 to 22 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. The width of the inner zone (3), along the minor axis (not shown), is from 9 mm to 19 mm, alternatively from 11 mm to 17 mm, alternatively 12 mm to 15 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. In one non-limiting example, the length and the width of the inner zone (3) is 20 mm and 14 mm, respectively.

In an alternative embodiment, the applicator (1) has an overall oval shape (as the curvilinear shape) defined by the circumferential edge (9). Alternatively the inter-zone border (13) forms an oval shape. Alternatively the inner zone (3) has an ovoidal portion protruding from the first surface (31)

Preferably the outer zone (6) generally has uniform thickness throughout the outer zone from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 1 mm to 2.5 mm, more preferably from 1 mm to 2 mm. In yet an ever further preferred embodiments, the inner zone (3) has a thickness from 1.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 2.5 mm to 4.5 mm, more preferably from 3 mm to 4 mm.

The first surface (31) of the applicator (1) opposes the second surface (32). The second surface (32) is concave whereas the first surface is generally convex. It is the second surface that is configured to primarily make contact with the facial substrate. Referencing FIG. 3, the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) has at least two relevant radii (when the applicator (1) is has an overall elliptical shape). R₅ (24), or the fifth radius, is the longest distance of an axis between: where the center vertical axis (37) intersects the second surface (32); and where circumferential edge (2) intersects the horizontal plane (35). R₆ (26), or the sixth radius, is the shortest distance of an axis between: where the center vertical axis (37) intersects the second surface (32); and where circumferential edge (2) intersects the horizontal plane (35).

R₅ (25) is along the plane of the major axis and R₆ (26) is along the plane of the minor axis. Accordingly R₅ (25) is longer than R₆ (26). In one embodiment, R₅ (25) is from 19 mm to 39 mm, preferably from 24 mm to 34 mm, alternatively from 26 mm to 32 mm, alternatively 25 to 30 mm, alternatively from 28 mm to 33 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. In another embodiment R₆ (26) is from 12 mm to 32 mm, preferably from 17 mm to 27 mm, alternatively from 19 mm to 25 mm, alternatively from 20 mm to 24 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. In yet another embodiment, the second surface (32) of the applicator is free or substantially free of any protrusions or texturing. In a non-limiting example, the R₅ (25) and R₆ (26) are 28.25 mm and 22 mm, respectively.

FIG. 4 is cross sectional front view of the applicator of FIG. 1 along the minor axis. FIG. 5 is a cross sectional right view along the major axis of the applicator of FIG. 1. The second surface (32) of the applicator (1) is generally concave. Accordingly, there is a gap between the second surface (32) and the horizontal plane (35) when the applicator (1) is placed on the horizontal plane (35) without any force being exerted onto the first surface (31). It is the second surface (32), along the circumferential edge (9), that makes contact with the horizontal plane (35). The maximum gap distance (not shown) is the maximum distance between the second surface (32) and the horizontal plane (35). Typically the maximum gap distance is measured along the center vertical axis (37). The maximum gap distance is from 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 2 mm to 4 mm. In one non-limiting example the maximum gap distance is 3 mm, and the thickest portion of the applicator (1) is at the center vertical axis (37) and is at 3.3 mm.

FIG. 4 illustrates: R₁, or first radius (21); and R₂, or the second radius (22). These are not drawn to scale. The circumcenter of R₁ (21) and R₂ (22) are each located along the center vertical axis (37) and the plane of the minor axis of the applicator (1). R₁ (21) is the radius of the arc of the first surface (31) of the inner zone (3) of the applicator (1) along the minor axis. R₂ (22) is the radius of the arc of the first surface (31) of the outer zone (6) of the applicator (1) along the minor axis. In one embodiment, R₁ (21) is from 9 mm to 19 mm, preferably from 11 mm to 17 mm, more preferably from 12 mm to 16 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. In another embodiment, R₂ (22) is from 53 mm to 93 mm, preferably from 63 mm to 83 mm, alternatively from 67 mm to 79 mm, alternatively from 70 mm to 76 mm, alternatively combinations thereof.

FIG. 5 illustrates: R₃, or third radius (23); and R₄, or the fourth radius (24). The respective circumcenter of R₃ (23) and R₄ (24) are each located along the center vertical axis (37) and the plane of the major axis (not shown) of the applicator (1). R₃ (23) is the radius of the arc of the first surface of the outerzone (6) of the applicator (1) along the major axis. R₄ (24) is the radius of the art of the first surface of the inner zone (3) of the applicator (1) along the major axis. In one embodiment, R₃ (23) is from 21 mm to 33 mm, preferably from 23 mm to 31 mm, alternatively from 25 mm to 29 mm, alternatively combinations thereof. In another embodiment, R₄ (24) is from 120 mm to 200 mm, preferably from 130 mm to 190 mm, preferably from 140 mm to 180 mm, alternatively from 150 mm to 166 mm, alternatively from 152 mm to 164 mm, alternatively combinations thereof.

FIG. 6 is an exploded and cross sectional view of the applicator (1) nearest the circumferential edge (9). FIG. 6 illustrates R₇, or the seventh radius (27). R₇ (27) is the radius of the arc of the circumferential edge (9) measured from the outer surface thereof. Preferably R₇ is the same circumferentially around the applicator (1). In one embodiment, R₇ (27) is 0.01 mm to 2 mm.

The mass of the applicator is from 1.0 g to 500 g.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, there are potential benefits of having the inner zone (3) thicker than the outer zone (6). The larger thickness may provide for improved mold processing. Furthermore, the ellipsoidal shaped protrusion (or any other shaped protrusion) of inner zone (3) from the first surface (31) of the applicator (1), may help novice users under the proper orientation of their fingers for use and perhaps avoiding having their fingers slip during use. The protrusion may help in the rigidity of the applicator at its center to help evenly distribute downward forces to the circumferential edge (9). The size of the protrusion may help visualize for the user how much of the skin care composition should be dosed. Lastly, processing may be improved with the protrusion by making applicator easier to separate should any co-adhesion happen during bulk packing.

Bending Force:

Another aspect of the invention provides for the applicator to have the right balance in bending force. There needs to be enough bending force as to provide hair lay-down benefits but not too much so as to provide insufficient flexibility to accommodate the complex contours of the human face. Tables 1a and 1b summarizes dimensions of ten applicators (and standard deviation). Tables 2a and 2b summarize results from bending force testing from the applicators described in Tables 1 and 1b.

TABLE 1a Dimensions (mm) Ellipse-Shaped Applicators of FIG. 1 Variable: Length¹ Width Thickness² Height³ R₁ (21)⁴ Average 57.390 44.165 1.599 6.076 13.824 (N = 10) Standard 0.052 0.140 0.111 0.266 0.249 Deviation ¹i.e., the longest dimension. ²Thickness of the outer zone (6), wherein the thickness of the outer zone (6) is substantially uniform throughout the outer zone (6) ³“Height” is the distance measured along the center vertical axis (35) from the horizontal plane (35) to the first surface (31) of the applicator (1). In other words, it is the maximum gap distance plus the thickness of the inner zone (3) along the center vertical axis (37). It should be appreciated, given the properties of the material, the mass of the applicator, and concave surface of the applicator facing down, and overall geometry of the application, are variables that may impact the “height” dimension herein. ⁴Radii R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, and R₆ are as previously defined above.

TABLE 1b Dimensions (mm) Ellipse-Shaped Applicators of FIG. 1 continued Variable: R₂ (22) R₃ (23) R₄ (24) R₅ (25) R₆ (26) Average 72.942 27.158 158.151 17.178 37.130 (N = 10) Standard 6.410 1.575 35.259 0.371 1.168 Deviation

Each of the ten applicators, with dimensions specified in the Tables 1a and 1b above, are assessed for bending force at various locations at the applicator. The average force values (Newton) and standard deviations are summarized in Table 2a and Table 2b below. An INSTRON branded model is a suitable instrument for assessing bending force. The instrument has a stainless steel probe with a circular and flat (1 cm diameter) contact zone, and is affixed to the load cell of the instrument. The probe depresses in a down direction (i.e., orthogonally down to a level bench top). The bending force is assessed at the circumferential edge (9), at the respective major and minor axis of the elliptical shaped applicator (1), and at the respective first surface (31) and the second surface (32). The contact zone of the probe is brought to bear on the circumferential edge (9) so that the center of the probe is in contact with the outermost edge of the circumferential edge (9) (at the respective surfaces (31, 32)). The applicator (1) is affixed in a C-clamp for the force measurement, wherein the C-clamp clamps the applicator at the geometric center of the applicator on the first surface (31) and the second surface (32). The C-clamp has a contact surface areas of 0.25 cm² for each clamp on the respective surfaces (31,32). The contact areas of each clamp are circular and flat.

Force measurements are taken at the major axis and minor axis of the applicator (1). In one set of measurements, the second surface (32) is face down, i.e., concave surface facing down, with the contact zone of the probe brought to bear on the first surface (31) at the major and minor axis. In another set measurements, the second surface (32) facing up, i.e., concave surface facing up, with the contact zone of the probe brought to bear on the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) at the major and minor axis. The percent difference in bending force of the respective surfaces (31, 32), at the respective axis, is compared. Table 2a is directed to the minor axis and Table 2b is directed to the major axis.

TABLE 2a Difference in bending force (N) of the applicator at minor axis between second surface (32) facing down vs. second surface (32) facing up. Location: Percent (%) Minor Axis; 2^(nd) Minor Axis; 2^(nd) Difference Surface Down¹ Surface Up² in Force Average (n = 10)  0.0336N 0.11014N 328% Standard 0.01713N  0.0307N 176% Deviation ¹Probe contacting the first surface (31) of the applicator. ²Probe contacting the second surface (32) of the applicator (i.e., concave surface against probe).

For the Minor Axis, the preferred range of downward resistance force against the skin at the outward edges of the applicator used to doctor the material inward and through the trailing edge of the applicator and distributed onto the skin should broadly range from 0.01804 Newton force to 0.20224 Newton force. The more preferred range of forces resistance for the sides, or minor axis, should be between the range of 0.04874 to 0.17154 Newton force. The most preferred lateral downward resistance should be between 0.07944 and 0.14084 Newton forces.

TABLE 2b Difference in bending force (N) of the applicator at major axis between second surface (32) facing down vs. second surface (32) facing up. Location: Percent (%) Major Axis; 2^(nd) Major Axis; 2^(nd) Difference Surface Down³ Surface Up⁴ in Force Average (n = 10) 0.03754N  0.0931N 248% Standard 0.00787 0.02051N 260% Deviation ³Probe contacting the first surface (31) of the applicator. ⁴Probe contacting the second surface (32) of the applicator (i.e., concave surface against probe).

As contrasting to the previous Minor Axis ranges the Major Axis downward resistance on the skin needed to doctor a sufficient film of material through the trailing edge of the applicator is preferred to be from 0.03157 to 0.15463 Newton force. The more preferred range of resistance pressure is 0.05208 to 0.13412 Newton force. The most preferred range of resistance is 0.06153 to 0.11361 Newton force.

As illustrated by the Tables 2a and 2b, the bending force against the second surface (32) is greater than the bending force against the first surface (31). Without wishing to be bound by theory, the complex curvature in the Z axis (i.e., “cup shape”) of the applicator forms an internal force distribution within the applicator. The shape, coupled with the use of the elastomeric materials described herein, enables even and smooth deposition of skin care compositions to the facial substrate. This internal force distribution enables the appropriate amount of downward pressure at the contact points of the applicator against the facial substrate for composition application, but also provides the appropriate amount of pressure to maintain a reservoir of the composition that precedes the contacting edge to offer an even flow of composition to the contacting edge (and thus facial substrate) during use. Furthermore, this bias of the bending force between the surfaces (31, 32) also enables less of the user's finger pressure during application and thus a more even distribution of downwards pressure against the facial substrate. This allows for a wider range of user back finger pressure variations and yet still achieving the desired even and smooth composition deposition.

One aspect of the invention provides for an applicator (1) wherein the first surface (31) has a first bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), and the second surface (32) has a second bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), wherein the second bending force is at least 1.1 times, preferably from 1.1 to 10, more preferably from 1.5 to 5, alternatively 2 to 5, alternatively combinations thereof, times greater than the first bending force.

Surface Friction

One aspect of the invention provides an applicator that has a smooth surface, preferably the surface that is configured to make contact with the target skin substrate. Such a smooth surface provides more effective application of skin care composition, particularly for providing hair lay-down benefits. One way of measuring the smooth surface of the applicator is by way of surface friction. One suitable way of analyzing friction is by using a “KES-SE” Friction Tester, manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan. A non-limiting applicator of the present invention measures a coefficient of friction or “COF” of 0.65 (a control “roughness plate” measuring at 0.43 (typically measuring between 0.36 to 0.45). In one embodiment, the COF of a virgin applicator is from 0.5 to 0.9, alternatively from 0.55 to 0.75.

Surface Energy

Surface energy is another way of characterizing a smooth surface. One suitable way of measuring “Owens-Wendt Surface Energy” is using FTA1000 Drop Shape Instrumentation, manufactured by First Ten Angstroms, Inc., Portsmouth, Va., U.S.A. The Owens-Wendt Surface Energy is determined by adding: (i) the surface energy due to dispersive interactions (so called “dispersive component”); (ii) and the surface energy due to polar interactions (so called “polar component”). A glass microscope slide and a plastic microscope cover slip are used as controls. The results are summarized in the table below.

TABLE 3 Owens-Wendt Surface Energy of Applicator (of present invention) and Controls Dispersive Polar Sample: Component Component Surface Energy Applicator 26.2 1.2 27.4 Glass Slide (Control) 33.2 34.6 67.8 Plastic Cover Slip (Control) 32.7 14.5 47.2

In one embodiment, an exterior surface of the applicator (1) (preferably the second surface (32)), comprises a surface energy from 17 dynes/cm to 37 dynes/cm, preferably from 32 dynes/cm to 42 dynes/cm, alternatively combinations thereof.

Hardness

The hardness value of a non-limiting example of an applicator is assessed at 39.8 on Durometer Scale A. In one embodiment, the applicator comprises a Hardness value measured on Durometer Scale A from 30 to 60, preferably from 35 to 50. The softness/pliability of the material should allow more force at the trailing edge. Applicator durometers were measured with a Shore Scale A (Asker Durometer model XP-A) durometer tester.

Skin Care Composition

The skin care composition suitable for topical application to skin by the applicator may be essentially any dermatologically safe composition. In a preferred embodiment, the composition contains one or more ingredients to soften hair (e.g., glycerol) to work in combination with the applicator to minimize the appearance of hair, preferably facial hair, preferably fine facial hair on a human female. In another preferred embodiment, the composition contains one or more ingredients to cover the fine facial hair such as foundation. More preferably, the skin care composition comprises both hair softening ingredients as well as hair or skin covering agents (e.g., pigments). While pigments may be used, an alternative preferred composition is essentially free of pigments. In other embodiments, the pigment level may be normal or a reduced level of pigment may be used. Other ingredients may also be included in the composition such as a sunscreen agent or skin whitening agent. Preferably the skin care composition: will not clog skin pores; is suitable for sensitive skin, and is dermatologically tested. In a preferred embodiment, the skin care composition is a film forming composition to provide, in part, hair lay-down benefits. Film-forming compositions (e.g., MQ resins) are known in the art. See e.g., WO 97/17057; WO 98/52515.

In another embodiment, the skin care composition generally has a higher viscosity. Without wishing to be bound by a theory, a more viscous composition can provide better coverage or application to a face since it will not run as compared to less viscous compositions, thereby allowing more time for the composition to be applied by the user via the applicator and more time for the composition to be absorbed by the facial skin and fine facial hair. The applicator of the present invention is particularly suitable for applying such higher viscosity composition. All stated viscosities in the present application are Brookfield viscosities, unless otherwise specified. Suitable Brookfield viscosity ranges for the skin care composition may include those from 100 centipoise (cps) to 200,000 cps, preferably from 15,000 cps to 90,000 cps, more preferably from 15,000 cps to 60,000 cps, alternatively for an applicator with 39.8 Shore A hardness the preferable ranges are from 15,000 cps to 40,000 cps, and alternatively combinations thereof. One suitable way of measuring viscosity includes using a Brookfield RVT, Spindle C, in Heliopath mode, at 5 rotations per minute (RPM) spindle speed (and under ambient conditions). Without wishing to be bound by theory, the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) having a concave surface may help to retain the skin care composition while the user dispenses the composition onto the second surface. The concave second surface of the applicator acts as a reservoir during the use of the applicator so the skin care composition is applied more from the center of the applicator. This is in sharp contrast to some other applicators that act as a rectilinear squeegee moving the skin care composition to the either side of the applicator. This can lead to having more strokes of applicator by the user for application (increasing the time of application); and undesirably forcing the skin care composition to move in a direction inconsistent to the grain of the fine facial hair, thereby potentially leading to suboptimal hair lay-down results.

The viscosity of the skin care composition may have a significant impact on the effective coverage of the product on skin using the applicator of the present invention. Low viscosity compositions used with a high Shore A applicator may not dispense well from the applicator because the fluid may not develop sufficient fluid dynamic resistance to overcome the downward force of the applicator's trailing edge. Alternatively, high viscosity compositions, when used in combination with a low Shore A applicator, may result in uneven deposition due to the high level of fluid dynamic resistance and relatively low trailing edge force.

In one embodiment, the skin care compositions that are used in combination with the applicator of the present invention have a viscosity which correlates to the hardness of the applicator. For an applicator with a Shore A hardness of about 39 to 45, the skin care composition will have a viscosity of about 15,000 cps to 40,000 cps. Alternatively, for an applicator with a Shore A hardness of about 55 to 60, the skin care composition will have a viscosity of about 68,000 cps to 90,000 cps. Alternatively, for an applicator with a Shore A hardness of about 47, the skin care composition will have a viscosity of about 100 cps to 90,000 cps, more preferably, between about 15,000 cps to 90,000 cps.

The shear thinning behavior of the skin care formulation is also important for even deposition due to the fact application shear rates are >100 s⁻¹. When used, the applicator is in motion, exerting a shear stress on the fluid. As a result, a velocity gradient is exerted and high shear rates are created due to the small gap thickness. A typical shear rate for “spreading” or “rubbing” is >100 s⁻¹ and as a result, a shear thinning product will exert less resistance to spreading. Viscosities were defined as a Brookfield Viscosity which is a common industrial method to quantify the structure of the fluid. Additionally, steady state flow curves using a TA instrument AR-G2 rheometer was created by exerting the fluid to increasing shear stresses and measuring the resulting viscosity. As is common to those known in the field, the data was then fit to the constitutive Carreau Model to fit the data to a common shear rate (in this case 10 and 100 s⁻¹).

In addition, the Durometer measured hardness of the applicator material having the same geometry can be varied through composition to create a more ideal hardness of applicator for a particular product fluid viscosity. Specifically, with the oval geometry described herein, the applicator Durometer hardness may be ranged from Shore A 20 to Shore A 80, more preferably Shore A 30 to Shore A 65 and specifically Shore A 39 to Shore A 59. By comparing material deposited with a plurality of applicator hardness's, all with the same geometry, it is possible to determine the ideal range of applicator hardness's for specific ranges of product viscosities. In particular, a Shore A hardness of 39.8 has best product deposition performance for viscosities ranging from 100 cps to 19,900 cps. Similarly, an applicator with Shore A hardness of 47 created the most preferable deposition pattern with product viscosities between 20K cps and 69.9K cps. Moreover, an applicator with a Shore A hardness of 59 delivers a more preferred deposition pattern with viscosities from 70K to 200K cps.

EXAMPLES

Cosmetic compositions were prepared by conventional methods from the following components.

Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 4 Ex. 5 Com 1 KF-7312J*¹ 6.000 4.000 Luviskol K17*² 2.000 0.500 Daitosol 5000 SJ*³ 5.000 Glycerin USP 10.000 5.000 10.000 10.000 10.000 Propylene glycol 30.000 Pentylene glycol 2.500 3.000 2.500 1,2 HEXANEDIOL 0.500 2.000 0.500 DI Water 52.500 48.659 54.467 37.341 55.967 43.659 SA TTC-30*⁴ 4.500 2.000 2.000 4.500 TTC-30*⁵ 5.000 Cyclomethicone D5 15.0000 11.1010 15.1010 Tridecyl isononanoate 10.000 5.000 2.833 2.833 5.000 (WHICKENOL 153) KF-6028*⁶ 2.000 1.500 1.500 Sorbitan isostearate 0.500 1.500 1.500 (CRILL6) Brij 72*⁷ 0.100 0.100 Brij S721*⁸ 0.900 0.900 Polysorbate 20 1.000 Octyl 2.000 7.000 7.000 2.000 methoxylcinnamate, USP (UVINUL MC80) Tocopheryl acetate 0.200 0.200 (DL) Cetyl alcohol (APJ) 0.200 0.200 Stearyl alcohol 0.600 0.600 (LEROL C18) Behenyl alcohol (High 0.400 0.400 stearyl) BENTONE GEL VS- 1.500 1.500 5PCV RHEOPEARL KL2*⁹ 3.500 2.500 2.500 Ozokerite Wax BHT 0.500 0.500 Ethyleparaben, NF 0.200 0.200 Propylparaben 0.150 0.150 SA/NAI-TR-10/D5*¹⁰ 3.750 3.750 SA/NAI-Y-10/D5*¹¹ 0.637 0.637 SA/NAI-R-10/D5*¹² 0.327 0.327 SA/NAI-B-10/D5*¹³ 0.196 0.196 SI-2 Yellow LL-100P*¹⁴ 0.435 0.435 SI-2 Red R-516P*¹⁵ 0.240 0.240 SI-2 Black BL-100P*¹⁶ 0.096 0.096 SA Titanium Dioxide 5.544 5.544 CR-50*¹⁷ SI TALC*¹⁸ 0.835 0.835 SI SILDEX H-52*¹⁹ 2.000 2.000 SI TALC CT-20*²⁰ 2.000 2.000 Silica Pearl P-4*²¹ 10.000 5.000 10.000 PGSS-22 TiO2 R250*²² 8.330 PGSS-22 Yellow 0.620 No. 602P*²³ PGSS-22 Red No. 211P 0.404 Mix*²⁴ PGSS-22 Black 0.205 No. 710P*²⁵ SEPIGEL 305*²⁶ 1.000 1.400 1.000 MAKIMOUSSE 12*²⁷ 0.250 Hexamidine 0.080 0.080 diisethionate EDTA-2NA 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050 Phenoxy Ethanol 0.300 0.100 0.400 0.100 Benzyl Alcohol 0.150 0.150 0.500 0.500 0.150 Methylparaben 0.250 0.250 Total 100.000 100.000 100.000 100.000 100.000 100.000 Ex. 6 Ex. 7 Cyclopentasiloxane 0.036 13.000 Cyclopentasiloxane/Dimethicone 23.200 13.200 Copolyol*²⁸ Titanium Dioxide 9729, 2.142 2.000 Dimethicone treated Talc 9742 12.372 11.550 Red 9753 Color Grind 0.000 0.000 (70%) Yellow 9756 Color 0.000 0.000 Grind (55%) Black 9734 Color Grind 0.000 0.000 (65%) Colorwave Gold 1.000 1.000 Silica (L-1500 Type) 0.500 0.500 Synthetic Wax PT-0602 0.100 0.100 Arachidyl Behenate 0.300 0.300 Trihydroxystearin 0.300 0.300 Cyclopentasiloxane 1.000 1.000 Laureth-7 0.500 0.500 Propylparaben 0.150 0.150 Tocopherol Acetate 0.500 0.500 Ethylene Brassylate 0.050 0.050 DI Water 43.500 41.500 Glycerin USP-Tank 7.000 7.000 Sodium Chloride 2.000 2.000 Trisodium EDTA 0.100 0.100 Phenoxyethanol 0.450 0.450 Sodium Dehydroacetate 0.300 0.300 Dexpanthenol 0.500 0.500 Niacinamide 2.000 2.000 N-acetyl Glucosamine 2.000 2.000 Total 100.000 100.000 *¹Trimethylsiloxysilicate (50%) and Cyclopentasiloxane (50%) form Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. *²PVP (100%) from BASF Corporation *³Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer (100%) from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *⁴Titanium Dioxide and Aluminum Hydroxide and Talc and Magnesium Stearate and Dimethicone from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *⁵Titanium Dioxide and Aluminum Hydroxide and Talc and Magnesium Stearate from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *⁶PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone from Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. *⁷Isosteareth-2 from Croda, Inc. *⁸Steareth-21 from Croda, Inc. *⁹Dextrin Palmitate from Chiba Flour Milling Company, Ltd. *¹⁰Titanium Dioxide and Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone and Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate and Aluminum Hydroxide from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹¹Iron Oxides and Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone and Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate and Aluminum Hydroxide from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹²Iron Oxides and Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone and Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate and Aluminum Hydroxide from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹³Iron Oxides and Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone and Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate and Aluminum Hydroxide from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹⁴Iron Oxides and Methicone from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *¹⁵Iron Oxides and Methicone from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *¹⁶Iron Oxides and Methicone from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *¹⁷Titanium Dioxide and Aluminum Hydroxide and Dimethicone from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹⁸Talc and from Methicone from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *¹⁹Silica and Methicone from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *²⁰Talc and from Methicone from Miyoshi Kasei, Inc. *²¹Silica from Presperse LLC *²²Titanium Dioxide and Aluminum Hydroxide and Methoxy PEG-10 Propyltrimethoxysilane and Silica from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *²³Iron Oxides and Methoxy PEG-10 Propyltrimethoxysilane and Silica from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *²⁴Iron Oxides and Methoxy PEG-10 Propyltrimethoxysilane and Silica from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *²⁵Iron Oxides and Methoxy PEG-10 Propyltrimethoxysilane and Silica from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *²⁶Polyacrylamide and Water and C13-14 Isoparaffin and Laureth-7 from Seppic *²⁷Sodium Polyacrylate Starch from Daito Kasei Kogyo Co., Ltd. *²⁸DC-5225C from Dow Corning

As for Examples 1-3 and Comparison Example 1, in a suitable vessel, all hydrophilic and water soluble components except a thickener (SEPIGEL 305 *26) were blended together, and mixed until all of the components were dissolved. In another vessel, all hydrophobic and oil soluble components except a thickener (RHEOPEARL KL2 *9) were blended, and mixed until all of the components were homogenized. Mix above hydrophilic and hydrophobic ingredients for emulsification. A thickener was added to the obtained emulsion, and the emulsion was gently mixed. When RHEOPEARL KL2 is a thickener, the emulsion was heated until 90 C, then it was cooled down.

As for Example 4, in a suitable vessel, all hydrophilic and water soluble components except a thickener (SEPIGEL 305 *26 and MAKIMOUSSE 12 *27) were blended together, and mixed until all of the components were dissolved. Thickeners were added the mixture and the mixture was gently mixed.

The following Commercial Formulations were also used in testing:

Commercial Product 1 (“CP1”) Revlon Color Stay ™ (Normal Skin) Commercial Product 2 (“CP2”) Revlon Color Stay ™ (Dry Skin) Commercial Product 3 (“CP3”) Maybelline 24 hours Super Stay ™ Commercial Product 4 (“CP4”) Maybelline Mousse Commercial Product 5 (“CP5”) L'Oreal Infallible ™ 18 hours Commercial Product 6 (“CP6”) L'Oreal True Match Commercial Product 7 (“CP7”) Cover Girl ™ Simply Ageless ™ Commercial Product 8 (“CP8”) Cover Girl ™ Clean Commercial Product 9 (“CP9”) Cover Girl ™ Clean Oil Control Commercial Product 10 (“CP10”) Cover Girl ™ Clean Sensitive Commercial Product 11 (“CP11”) Cover Girl ™ TRUblend ™ Commercial Product 12 (“CP12”) Cover Girl ™ Outlast 3 in 1 Commercial Product 13 (“CP13”) Temptu ™ Pro The following applicators were also used in testing:

Silicone applicator Durometer App #1 Shore A 39.8 App #2 Shore A 47 App #3 Shore A 59

Examples of Skin Compositions

Non-limiting examples of skin care compositions that may be used in combination with the applicator of the present invention include: US 2005/0255059 A1, paragraph 202, examples 12 and 13; WO 97/17057; and US 2005/0238679 A1. One non-limiting example of a composition comprises: 0.3-10 wt % (preferably 3-6 wt %) of a silicone resin (e.g., MQ resins (trimethylsiloxysilicate) and MQ resins blends from Dow Corning); 5-15 wt % (preferably 8-12 wt %) of glycerin; 2-10 wt % (preferably 4 to 8 wt %) of TiO₂ (e.g., TiO₂ coated talc or silicone treated TiO₂); and 30% to 70% water. Film forming skin compositions are well known in the beauty care arts.

The following examples further describe and demonstrate embodiments of compositions that are useful in combination with the present invention. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the present invention, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Test Methods Hair Lay-Down Measurement #1

21 arm hairs with various lengths are implanted in artificial skin such as Bio Skin (model No. H064-001) from Beaulax Co., Ltd. (Japan) Hair length is in the range of 0.5-1.8 cm after implanted in the artificial skin. Excess hairs at the backside of the artificial skin are cut and glue such as cyanoacrylate type instant glue is applied to the backside to adhere hairs on the artificial skin. 0.0125 g (0.0005 g/cm2) of a test sample is applied on the Bio Skin by a finger with finger sack until the sample is evenly distributed. 5 min later, each hair is rated based on a grading sheet of FIG. 1. An average hair lay down rate is calculated by dividing total of rating numbers by total numbers of hair. The number of hairs and the amount of a sample can be adjusted.

Hair Lay-Down Measurement #2

The arms of human subjects were treated with product using a rubber finger sack and evaluated using the following procedure:

1. Set a rectangle area of 3.8 cm×10 cm on one forearm. 2. Wipe the area with sheet make-up remover, wash with warm water and wipe with paper towel. 3. Measure test product (0.03 ml) via syringe and apply on the forearm using index finger with rubber finger sack. 4. Spread the product evenly within the area and spread it to the one direction for 10 times. 5. Take photos using VISTA from a) the side and b) the top.

-   -   a) For hair lay-down evaluation:         -   i) Magnify the side-view photo to 2×         -   ii) Measure the height of all hairs that are more than 0.3             cm from the surface of the skin.         -   iii) Compare a) the height of the hairs, and b) the ratio of             lay down hairs as a t-test and calculate the average. A             t-test is any statistical hypothesis test in which the test             statistic follows a Student's t distribution if the null             hypothesis is supported. It can be used to determine if two             sets of data are significantly different from each other,             and is most commonly applied when the test statistic would             follow a normal distribution if the value of a scaling term             in the test statistic were known. When the scaling term is             unknown and is replaced by an estimate based on the data,             the test statistic (under certain conditions) follows a             Student's t distribution.     -   b) For hair camouflage, use a top-view photo to visually assess         the treated area.

Measurement of Hair Lay Down

Select examples were tested according to Hair Lay-Down Measurement #1, and provided the following average hair lay down rate.

Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 4 Ex. 5 Com. 1 Hair Lay-Down with 1.3 1.1 1.8 2.4 random application Hair Lay-Down 1.9 1.5 3.0 5.1 1.9 0.9 with the direction of hair growth application

Comparison to Commercial Products

Products were tested according to Hair Lay-Down Measurement #2. Results of the analysis using Hair Lay-Down Measurement #2:

Test 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Product None Ex. 3 CP1 CP2 CP3 CP4 CP5 CP7 CP8 Subject 1 Avg. Height (cm) 1.51 0.11 0.22 0.52 0.45 0.52 0.73 0.94 1.14 % of Hairs lay down 0 81 68 51 42 46 36 27 20 Subject 2 Avg. Height (cm) 0.98 0.07 0.19 0.43 0.56 0.29 0.53 0.37 0.39 % of Hairs lay down 0 91 77 58 48 64 55 61 47

Viscosity/Hardness Examples

The following examples further describe and demonstrate embodiments of compositions that are useful in combination with the present invention. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the present invention, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Test Method

Applied 0.15 gram of each formulation on 3 different durometer silicone applicators and then the applied product to a Lenetta Card (5.5×10″) Form 2A B#4201 Opacity charts at two different speed 6″/sec and 1″/sec. All tests were conducted with at least 4 replicates per test.

A visual grading scale, as shown in FIG. 12, was used. It shows grade variety with pictures. The visual results were translated into relative quantitative data.

Shear Shear rate rate Brookfield viscosity viscosity Formulations Formulation Viscosity 10 sec⁻¹ 100 sec⁻¹ Best tested type (cps) (cps) (cps) applicators Good applicator CP13 Alcohol and N/a 120 100 None None (too Oil (product dilute) too dilute) Ex. 3 Water in 19,000 3290 665 Shore A Shore A 47 silicone 47 Ex. 7 Water in 30,000 3810 580 Shore A Shore A 47 silicone 47 Ex. 3 Water in 68,000 10760 1900 Shore A Shore A 59 processed to silicone 47 be a higher viscosity Ex. 6 Water in 90,000 14610 1180 Shore A Shore A 47 silicone 59 CP9 Water in 9,000 5770 1000 None None good silicone good CP8 Oil in Water 2,500 1250 265 Shore A Shore A 59 47 CP11 Silicone in 20,000 7080 1130 Shore 47 Shore 59 water CP1 Silicone in Shore 47 Shore 47 water

Visual scale Brookfield Applicator WI- assessment Visual Viscosity Product @ 6″/s L* C* h ASTM 6″/sec assessment (cps) Ex. 3 App #1 67.308 18.894 60.53 −8.292 4 processed to be a higher viscosity Ex. 3 App #3 63.898 16.484 99.712 −4.126 4 processed to be a higher viscosity Ex. 3 App #2 72.158 24.256 57.686 −17.61 5 best 68,000 processed to be a higher viscosity Ex. 3 App #1 63.118 23.302 56.698 −15.154 4 best 19,000 Ex. 3 App #3 59.666 17.422 61.246 −6.78 4 Ex. 3 App #2 60.518 17.858 61.234 −7.09 4 CP1 App #1 61.948 19.91 60.104 −10.598 4 same CP1 App #3 61.088 19.11 60.562 −9.194 4 same CP1 App #2 60.79 17.422 61.936 −6.704 4 same CP8 App #1 52.878 22.622 59.808 −13.898 5 best 2,500 CP8 App #3 51.98 19.08 62.69 −9.97 4 CP8 App #2 52.902 22.48 59.524 −13.698 5 best CP11 App #1 64.024 10.806 64.018 7.738 4 CP11 App #3 58.518 4.538 106.366 16.738 4 CP11 App #2 65.908 11.874 67.438 5.398 5 best 20,000

Visual scale Visual Product Applicator assesment appli- Name @ 6″/s L* C* 6″/sec cation Viscosity Ex. 7 App #1 66.366 5.372 3 Best 30,000 Ex. 7 App #3 39.94 5.052 2 Ex. 7 App #2 50.802 5.582 3 best 30,000 Ex. 6 App #1 46.472 5.536 3 Ex. 6 App #3 59.97 5.916 5 best 90,000 Ex. 6 App #2 66.92 5.418 4

The CIE Lch Colour Space or Colour Model

The L* axis represents Lightness. This is vertical; from 0, which has no lightness (i.e. absolute black), at the bottom; through 50 in the middle, to 100 which is maximum lightness (i.e. absolute white) at the top.

The c* axis represents Chroma or ‘saturation’. This ranges from 0 at the centre of the circle, which is completely unsaturated (i.e. a neutral grey, black or white) to 100 or more at the edge of the circle for very high Chroma (saturation) or ‘colour purity’.

The h* axis represents Hue. If we take a horizontal slice through the centre, cutting the ‘sphere’ (‘apple’) in half, we see a coloured circle. Around the edge of the circle we see every possible saturated colour, or Hue. This circular axis is known as h° for Hue. The units are in the form of degrees° (or angles), ranging from 0° (red) through 90° (yellow), 180° (green), 270° (blue) and back to 0°.

Total Type Pigment, Film forming (O/W, TiO2 & Hair softeners polymers in W/O, talc TiO2 in formualtion formulation and Formulation Si/O etc) Viscosity levels levels and conc tested conc tested Water Ex. 3 Water in 82,500 Cps 8.19%  4.5% 5.0% 4.0% KF-7312J silicone (BB) & pigmentary Isotridecyl (Trimethysiloxysilicate) 51,800 Cps 1.26% Isononanoate, (SH) SPF 2.5% Pentanediol, 0.5% Hexanediol, 2.0% Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate Ex. 3 with Water in 32,000 Cps 8.19%  3.5% Same as above 4.0% KF-7312J 3.5% TiO2 silicone pigmentary (Trimethysiloxysilicate) 1.26% SPF Ex. 3 with Water in 46,000 Cps 8.19%  4.0% Same as above 4.0% KF-7312J 4.0% TiO2 silicone pigmentary (Trimethysiloxysilicate) 1.26% SPF (Less for ethnic) Ex. 3 with Water in 60,000 Cps 8.19%  4.5% Same as above 4.0% KF-7312J 4.5% TiO2 silicone pigmentary (Trimethysiloxysilicate) 1.215%  SPF CP8 Oil in RVT 13-13.8%  ≈5-9.0% 5.66% Mineral None water SP#3, 20 rpm, 1 min pigments TiO2 Oil, Dial 16-55 & talc 8.5% Isopropyl Myristate, (≈5-7%*) Propylene Glycol CP10 Water in Target ≈13.5%   8.50% 8.0% Propyl None silicone  8,500 Cps Total TiO2 Glycol, 3% Glycerin 2.0% Cetyl Octanoate CP6 CP12 Water in 10,000-40,000 Cps 0.5%-6.0% 8.0% PVP K17 silicone Propylene (Polyvinylpyrolidone) Glycol CP11 Silicone Varies 3.0-8.2% 2.04% PCA in Water Dimethicone, 7.142% Tridecyl Neopentanoate, 5.0% Propylene Glycol *Varies across shade palette

Film Forming Polymers

Name Vendor Description KF-7312J Shin-Etsu Mixture of 50% Trimethylsiloxysilicate and 50% cyclopentasiloxane. 5000SJ Kobo Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer KP550 Shin-Etsu Isododecane (and) Acrylate/Dimethicone Copolymer X-21-5595 Shin-Etsu Mixture of Trimethylsiloxysilicate (60%) and Isododecane (40%). KP545 Shin-Etsu Cyclopentasiloxane (and) Acrylate/ Dimethicone Copolymer DC670 Dow Corning Approximately 50 percent cyclopentasiloxane and approximately 50 percent polypropylsilsesquioxane DC593 Dow Corning Blend of polydimethylsiloxane and high molecular weight silicone resin KF7312J Shin Etsu Trimethylsiloxysilicate and cyclopentasiloxane

Methods of Application

An advantage of the present invention is the flexibility in how the applicator may be used to apply a skin care composition to a face. Based on Applicant's unpublished consumer research, many women are unsatisfied with prior art applicators (for various reasons) and will even resort to simply using their finger(s). Indeed the human face has a complicated geometry. Areas around the nose need a relatively small applicator whereas a cheek is a relatively large area that lends itself to applicators that cover broader areas. Having an applicator that also is efficient, i.e., minimizes application time, is also desired by many women. Therefore, there is a need to provide an applicator, that not only that provides hair lay-down benefits, but also is adaptable to the complex geometry of the human face.

Turning to FIGS. 8 a and 8 b, the applicator (1) lends itself to applying skin compositions to the relatively confining skin areas around the nose and around the eye (49) where more precise control is desirable. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8 b, the user may lay a index finger (41) along the major axis of the applicator (1) on first surface (31) of the applicator (1). The index finger (41) or fore finger is located between a user's middle finger (42) and thumb (43). Although not shown, the user may then roll the opposing edges of the minor axis of the applicator (1) by way of the middle finger (42) and the thumb (43) so the applicator (1) rolls at least partially around the index finger (41) and his held in the position by pressure being exerted by the thumb (43) and middle finger (42) on to the applicator (1) against the index finger (41). The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 8 a where the user is essentially using her index finger (41) to apply the applicator to the area between the nose (44) and cheek (45), wherein the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) is making contact with the target facial skin.

The index finger is typically not completely along the length of the applicator (i.e., along the major axis) as to allow some portion of the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) to make contact with the target skin area. This way, a portion of the applicator can bend and conform around relatively confining areas of face (e.g., nose intersecting the cheek). Although not shown in FIGS. 8 a and 8 b, there are a number of variations that within the scope of the methods described herein. For example, the index finger (41) may be along the minor axis of the applicator (1). Alternatively, the index finger (41) may be placed along the second surface (32) of the applicator. How much the index finger goes across the major or minor axis of the applicator (1), and how much the applicator (1) rolls around the index finger (41) may be best left to the user's own preferences.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b are directed to an alternative method. FIG. 9 b demonstrates the user rolling the applicator (1) into a roll by pressing either side of the first surface (31) of the applicator (1) along the minor axis between the index finger (41) and the thumb (43) to form a pinched roll shape. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 9 a where the user contacts the second surface (32) of the applicator (31) to the skin area between the nose (44) and the cheek (47).

FIGS. 10 a and 10 b are directed to a method that is likely best used for broader areas of the face such as cheeks (47). FIG. 10 b illustrates the user's thumb (43) contacting the second surface (32) of the applicator (1), and the index finger (1) and the middle finger (42) contacting the first surface (31) of the applicator (1) essentially straddling the thumb (43). Pressure exerted between the index finger (41) and the middle finger (42), and that of the thumb (43) with the applicator (1) there between, holds the applicator (1) in place during use and generally provides a curved shape to the applicator (1). The fingers (41,42) are generally not along the entire major axis of the applicator (1), but rather, some area of the applicator (1) is left without contacting the fingers (41 and 42) to allow a portion of the circumferential edge (not show) of the applicator (10) to better follow the contours of the face during application. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 10 a. The user gripps the applicator (1) between her fingers (41 and 42) and thumb (43), and guides the applicator (1) along her cheek (47). It is the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) that is making contact with the skin of her cheek (47).

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b are directed to a method that is likely best for broader areas of the face such as cheeks. FIG. 11 b illustrates the user's thumb (43) contacting the second surface (32) of the applicator (1), and the index finger (41), the middle finger (42) and the ring finger (49) generally along the major axis of the applicator (1) contacting the first surface (31) of the first applicator (1). The ring finger (49) is next to the middle finger (42). Pressure exerted between the index finger (41), middle finger (42), and ring finger (49) and that of the thumb with the applicator there between, holds the applicator (1) in place during use and generally provides a curved shape to the applicator (1). The fingers (41, 42, and 49) are generally not along the entire major axis of the applicator (1), but rather, some area of the applicator (1) is left without contacting the fingers (41,42, and 49) to allow a portion of the circumferential edge (not show) of the applicator (10) to better following the contours of the face during application. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 11 b. The user grips the applicator (1) between her three fingers (41, 42, and 49) and thumb (43), and guides the applicator (1) along her cheek (47). It is the second surface (32) of the applicator (1) that is making contact with the skin of her cheek (47).

A user can interchange between any one of these methods during a single facial application event.

On aspect of the invention provides for a method of hair minimization or hair lay-down benefits to a face, preferably a human female face, comprising the step of topically applying a composition, preferably film-forming composition, to the face by an applicator of the present invention. In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of assessing a directional axis of facial hair growth; and where the step of topically applying the composition with the applicator is conducted along the assessed directional axis of the facial hair growth. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the hair minimization or hair lay-down benefit is optimized by such an approach.

Kit

A non-limiting example of a kit containing an applicator and facial skin care composition is provided as FIG. 7. The composition is fine facial hair minimizing foundation. The foundation minimizes the appearance of fine facial hair when used in combination with the applicator. The kit may advertise: “Combined foundation coverage with a hair softening serum and smoothing applicator to cover fine facial hair so it's less noticeable. The foundation instantly evens skintone upon application, yet feels smooth, comfortable, and lightweight.” Copyright P&G 2012. The applicator may be a multiuse article that can be cleaned (e.g., soap and water) between uses. In one embodiment, the applicator and skin care composition are sold separately.

Instructions for Use

Instructions may be provided in the kit or with the applicator. Instructions instruct the user how to use the applicator and optionally the skin care composition (preferably consistent with the methods described herein). Further, the user may be instructed to apply the skin care composition with the applicator along a directional axis of facial hair growth.

In one embodiment, the user is instructed to dose from 0.05 ml to 0.25 ml of the skin care composition, alternatively from 0.1 ml to 0.2 ml, alternatively from 0.05 ml to 2 ml, alternatively combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the user is instructed to dose from 0.05 g to 0.25 g of the skin care composition, alternatively from 0.1 g to 0.2 g. The container containing the skin care composition may contain from 10 ml to 100 ml, alternatively from 20 ml to 50 ml, alternatively from 15 ml to 35 ml.

For optimal for skin lay-down benefits, it is best to apply the skin care composition with the applicator along the direction of the any hair growth (i.e., hair growth grain). A non-limiting example of use instructions include: “To Use: Check the direction of any facial hair growth. Use the applicator to apply the foundation where you normally would, but ensure you apply in the same direction as the facial hair growth and fully cover facial hair for best hair lay down.” P&G Copyright 2012.

Directions may also include those described in the U.S. Patent Application Publication claiming benefit to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/652,976, filed May 30, 2012, entitled “Cosmetic Products for Reducing Hair Appearance,” to Tanaka et al. (attorney docket no. P&G AA834P).

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An applicator (1) configured for topically applying a composition to a face comprising: a first surface (31) and an opposing second surface (32), wherein the second surface (32) is a concave surface and the second surface (32) comprises a non-absorbing elastomeric material.
 2. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the applicator has a curvilinear shape as defined by a circumferential edge (9); and the first surface (31) comprises the non-absorbing elastomeric material.
 3. The applicator (1) of claim 2, wherein the curvilinear shape is elliptical, and the second surface is configured to contain a volume from 0.1 ml to 10 ml, preferably a volume from 1 ml to 8 ml.
 4. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the applicator has a length from 45 mm to 70 mm, preferably from 50 mm to 65 mm; and a thickness not exceeding 6 mm.
 5. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the concave surface is configured to contain a volume from 0.1 ml to 10 ml.
 6. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric nonabsorbing material is selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic elastomers, urethanes, rubbers, polyvinylchloride, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyesters, polyacrylates, and polycarbonates.
 7. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the applicator is non-porous, free of a non-woven material, and free of an adhesive.
 8. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the applicator (1) comprises an inner zone (3) and an outer zone (6), wherein the outer zone (6) is defined as between the circumferential edge (9) and the inner zone (3), and wherein the inner zone (3) is thicker than the outer zone (6).
 9. The applicator (1) of claim 8, wherein the outer zone comprises a substantially uniform thickness from 0.5 mm to 3 mm.
 10. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the thickest portion of the applicator (1) is in the center of the applicator, and wherein the thickness at the center is from 45 mm to 70 mm.
 11. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the first surface (31) has a first bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), and the second surface (32) has a second bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), wherein the second bending force is at least 1.1 times greater than the first bending force.
 12. The applicator (1) of claim 9, wherein the intersection of the outer zone (6) and inner zone (3) is defined by a inter-zone border (13) at the first surface (31), wherein the inter-zone border (13) defines a curvilinear shape.
 13. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein: (a) the applicator is elliptical shaped as defined by circumferential edge (9); (b) the applicator has a length from 50 mm to 65 mm; and a width from 50 mm to 65 mm; (c) the applicator has a thickness not exceeding 5 mm; (d) the non-absorbing concave surface of the applicator is configured to contain a volume from 0.1 ml to 8 ml; (e) the applicator further comprising an inner zone (3) and an outer zone (6), wherein the outer zone (6) is defined between the circumferential edge (9) and the inner zone (3), wherein the inner zone (3) is thicker than the outer zone (6); (f) a thickest portion of the applicator (1) is in center of the applicator and is from 1 mm to 5 mm.
 14. The applicator (1) of claim 13, wherein the intersection of the outer zone (6) and inner zone (3) is defined by an inter-zone border (13), wherein the inter-zone border defines a curvilinear shape.
 15. The applicator (1) of claim 14, wherein the first surface (31) has a first bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), and the second surface (32) has a second bending force measured at the circumferential edge (9), wherein the second bending force is from 2 to 5 times greater than the first bending force; and wherein the material comprises a hydrogenated styrene butadiene block copolymer and a silicone fluid.
 16. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the second surface (32) has one or more of the following values: (a) a coefficient of friction value from 0.5 to 0.9; (b) an Owens-Wendt Surface Energy value from 17 to 37; and (c) a Hardness value measured on Durometer Scale A from 30 to
 50. 17. The applicator (1) of claim 1, wherein the applicator (1) further comprises: (a) 10% to 100%, preferably from 40% to 100%, more preferably from 50% to 100%, of a surface area of the applicator comprising the non-absorbing elastomeric material; and (b) 10% to 100%, preferably 40% to 100%, more preferably 50% to 100%, by weight of the applicator (1) comprises the non-absorbing elastomeric material.
 18. The applicator of claim 15, wherein: (a) the second surface (32) has the following values: (i) a coefficient of friction value from 0.55 to 0.75; (ii) an Owens-Wendt Surface Energy value from 32 to 42; and (ii) a Hardness value measured on Durometer Scale A from 35 to 45; (b) the applicator (1) further comprises: (i) 50% to 100% of a surface area of the applicator comprising the non-absorbing elastomeric material; and (ii) 50% to 100%, by weight of the applicator (1) comprises the non-absorbing elastomeric material.
 19. A method of providing hair minimization to a face comprising the step of topically applying a film-forming composition to the face by the applicator of claim
 1. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the steps: assessing a directional axis of facial hair growth; and where the step of topically applying the composition with the applicator is conducted along the assessed directional axis of the facial hair growth.
 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition has a Brookfield viscosity from 1,000 cps to 200,000 cps.
 22. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition has a Brookfield viscosity from 15,000 cps to 90,000 cps.
 23. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition has a Brookfield viscosity from 15,000 cps to 60,000 cps.
 24. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition at a shear rate of 10 s⁻¹ has a viscosity from 100 cps to 15,000 cps.
 25. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition at a shear rate of 10 s⁻¹ has a viscosity from 1500 cps to 8000 cps.
 26. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition at a shear rate of 100 s⁻¹ has a viscosity from 100 cps to 12,000 cps.
 27. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition at a shear rate of 100 s⁻¹ has a viscosity from 500 cps to 1000 cps.
 28. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition has a Brookfield viscosity from 1,000 cps to 200,000 cps, and further, wherein the film-forming composition at a shear rate of 100 s⁻¹ has a viscosity from 100 cps to 12,000 cps.
 29. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition is a water-in-silicone emulsion.
 30. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition is a silicone-in-water emulsion.
 31. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition is an oil-in-water emulsion.
 32. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition is an alcohol-in-oil system.
 33. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition is essentially free of pigment.
 34. The method of claim 19, wherein the film-forming composition comprises a pigment.
 35. The method of claim 19, wherein the applicator has a Shore A hardness of about 39 to 45, and further, wherein the film-forming composition has a viscosity of about 15,000 cps to 40,000 cps.
 36. The method of claim 19, wherein the applicator has a Shore A hardness of about 55 to 60, and further, wherein the film-forming composition has a viscosity of about 68,000 cps to 90,000 cps.
 37. A kit comprising an applicator of claim 1; a container containing a skin care composition. 